Two-out troubles spoiled the season opening game for the Nebraska City softball team in Thursday home action against Falls City.

The visiting Tigers scored six runs after two outs in the first inning, then added five more runs, also after two outs, in the fourth inning on the way to a run-rule shortened win.

Nebraska City's bats did come to life in the bottom of the fourth inning.

Kendra McGinnis got the frame going with a single and Cassi Tharp followed with a double before Hanna Mitchel hit a two RBI triple and Brooke Knapp followed with an RBI hit.

Alyssa Heiser hit a single in the fifth. Alissa Edwards followed with an RBI double and Tharp had and RBI triple.

Other highlights from the game included a pair of plays by Edwards, one in which she threw out a runner from her knees at the short stop and another where she drilled a line drive to the outfield, but was denied extra bases due to a spectacular catch.

Evy Causgrove pitched and took the loss, although it should be noted that her efforts were complicated by some defensive difficulties for the Pioneers.

Nebraska City is scheduled to return to action Saturday at the Milford tournament.

Milford tourney

Nebraska City will play in a four-team tourney on Saturday. The Pioneers will play at 8:30 a.m. against Milford, then at 10 a.m. against Adams Central, and finally at 11:30 a.m. against Conestoga. Tourney records will determine team placing.